Plug-in hybrids are a decent choice for many drivers because they offer electric range with the security of a gas engine, but a recent study from Europe shows they might not be as environmentally friendly as many people think. The European Environment Agency’s data showed that PHEVs can be as much as five times dirtier than the official figures published by carmakers.
The EEA looked at more than 127,000 onboard vehicle fuel consumption meters in 2023, finding that their real-world emissions averaged 139 grams of CO2 per kilometer, far higher than the WLTP’s estimate of 28 grams CO2/km. WLTP range and other estimates are often way different than the EPA’s figures, but some in Europe want changes in how the standards are calculated, because it’s clear many vehicles don’t meet emissions standards.
Part of the problem has to do with the fact that emissions, range, and fuel economy specs are often calculated in a lab, away from real-world conditions. That keeps the testing conditions consistent and makes things easier for all parties involved, but it clearly results in some discrepancies between real and calculated performance.
Another issue is plugging in, as data has shown that many PHEV drivers simply don’t charge when necessary. Once the battery depletes, the gas engine is left to lug around heavy batteries and other components, reducing fuel economy and increasing emissions.
[Images: Kia, Mitsubishi, Ford]
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